Australian Wildlife Journeys

Home , Lace monitor, Red Kangaroo, Western grey kangaroo, Western yellow robin

Australian Wildlife Journeys is a group of expert independently Introduction ...... 3 owned and operated wildlife tourism operators, who have Operator Experiences ...... 6 joined together to raise awareness of Australia as a world class destination for authentic and sustainable encounters with Arkaba ...... 6 wildlife in the wild. Australian Coastal Safaris ...... 8 Members of the group have a passion and commitment to Boutique Wildlife Tours...... 10 provide in-depth information about Australia’s diverse wildlife species, and are dedicated to the conservation and regeneration Echidna Walkabout Nature Tours ...... 12 of Australia’s natural heritage. Exceptional Kangaroo Island ...... 14 Central to these touring experiences is the guarantee of Exmouth Dive and Whalesharks Ningaloo ...... 16 knowledgeable high-quality guiding, interpretation, and FNQ Nature Tours ...... 18 hospitality that connects visitors with nature, fosters learning and respects local communities and environments. Lords Kakadu & Arnhemland Safaris ...... 20 Naturaliste Charters ...... 22 Premier Travel Tasmania ...... 24 SEIT Outback Australia ...... 26 The Maria Island Walk ...... 28 Wildlife Coast Cruises...... 30 Seasonal Viewing Calendars – Iconic Species ...... 32 Plan Your Trip ...... 45 Signature Experiences of Australia ...... 46

Common Wombat on Maria Island NEW SOUTH WALES 1 Boutique Wildlife Tours 11 VICTORIA 2 Echidna Walkabout Nature Tours 13 3 Wildlife Coast Cruises TASMANIA There’s nothing like 4 Premier Travel Tasmania 5 The Maria Island Walk

SOUTH AUSTRALIA Australia’s wildlife 6 Arkaba 9 12 Australia’s natural beauty and unique wildlife is a major drawcard for international More than half of the world’s cetacean species: whales, dolphins and porpoises, 7 Exceptional Kangaroo visitors, and with good reason. Our country is blessed with some of the most intriguing are found in Australian waters. The world’s largest population of Humpback Whales, Island mammals within the animal kingdom, more than 80 per cent of which are found estimated to be more than 30,000 individuals, travel along the coast of Western nowhere else on Earth. Australia every year to breed in the warm waters on their migration from Antarctica. 8 Australian Coastal Safaris This is mirrored on Australia’s east coast where over 20,000 Humpback Whales make Of the 828 bird species found on our continent, around 45 per cent are only found a similar journey. here. In fact, it has recently been determined that no other continent has contributed WESTERN AUSTRALIA so greatly to the evolution of birds, with most of the world’s species having Australian We also have the most reptiles and lizards of any nation, with 869 species, 93 per cent ancestry. of which are unique to our continent. A highlight for many visitors is to spot the largest 9 Exmouth Dive and living reptile and apex predator, the Saltwater Crocodile, found in abundance in the And the life in the waters surrounding Australia is simply extraordinary. Our coral Whalesharks Ningaloo northern parts of the country. reefs include the Great Barrier Reef, the largest living structure on earth and one of 10 Naturaliste Charters 6 the most complex ecosystems. On Australia’s west coast, the Ningaloo Marine Park is With so many species spread across stunning and diverse habitats including tropical the world’s largest extensive fringing reef, home to the graceful whale shark, and 50 rainforests, coral reefs, coastal heaths, wetlands and swamps, sandy deserts, and per cent of the Indian Ocean’s coral species. Along the southern Australian coastline, Eucalypt woodlands, it is little wonder why Australia is recognised across the globe NORTHERN TERRITORY 10 85 per cent of fish, 90 per cent of echinoderms (starfish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers) as a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise. 8 1 and 95 per cent of molluscs are considered endemic, with new species being discovered 11 Lords Kakadu and Australian Wildlife Journeys invites you to join us, let us share our knowledge with you, every day. Our oceans support over 5,000 species of fish, more than half of the shark Arnhemland Safaris 7 and help you discover why there’s nothing like Australia’s wildlife. and ray species in the world, six of the seven known species of marine turtles, and 12 SEIT Outback Australia tens of thousands of species of invertebrates. 2 QUEENSLAND 3 13 FNQ Nature Tours

4 5 Arkaba

Arkaba is a five-room luxury homestead on a private wildlife conservancy in South Australia’s ancient Flinders Ranges. Here you have the privilege of exploring 60,000-acres of privately-owned and carefully protected outback in all-inclusive Wild Bush Luxury with expert field guides and a maximum of 10 guests. Rainbow Bee Eaters Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby Against the backdrop of the Elder Range and Wilpena Pound, ancient sea beds and salt lakes have given way to spectacular rock formations, cypress pines and river red gums; this is an incredibly old landscape supporting a varied population of spectacular birds. You’ll be on the lookout for Emus, Ringneck, Mulga, Red-rumped and Elegant Parrots, Wedge-tailed Eagles, Black Goshawks, Black Kites and Rufous Whistlers to name but a few. It is also one of the best locations in Australia to see macropods. The largest living marsupial, the Red Kangaroo, is in very healthy populations, as are Western Grey Kangaroos and Common Wallaroos, which are uniquely adapted to the rock out-crops of the ranges. Arkaba’s new wildlife viewing hide provides an ideal vantage point for all kinds of wildlife coming to drink. Not only a place to see, but to watch all the fascinating interactions that occur between species. The Arkaba team immerse you in the story of the land through informed field guiding, South Australian food, wine and accommodation that exudes a real sense of place. Field guides generously share not only the region’s unique wildlife but stories of early explorers, pioneer settlers and of the first Australians of the Flinders Ranges, the Adnyamathanha people. Guided walks and safari drives take an interactive and interpretative approach, incorporating identification and tracking of the rich array of species that call this staggeringly beautiful wildlife conservancy home.

Featured Experience Days Departing Season Duration Max Number

Red-barred Dragon Mulga Parrot Every Thu and additional The Arkaba Walk (S,P) departures on Fri during Mid Mar - Mid Oct 4 days 10 Mar, Apr, May, Aug & Sep.

Three Day Safari (S,P) Daily Year round 3 days 10

Three Day Birds of Arkaba Experience (S,P) Daily Year round 3 days 10

Behind the Scenes with Researchers: Daily Year round Full day 10 Private Conservancy (S,P)

S Shared Group P Private Group Available

REGION: ACCESS: CONTACT: Flinders Ranges, 5 hour drive or 1.5 hour private charter +61 2 9571 6399 Outback South Australia ﬂight from Adelaide or Regional Express [email protected] ﬂight Adelaide (ADL) to Port Augusta (PUG) Emus Common Wallaroo Shingleback Lizard Arkaba Woolshed & 90 minute road transfer. 6 7 Australian Coastal Safaris

South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula is Australia’s ultimate temperate aquatic playground, featuring striking coastlines, vast sand dunes, rugged offshore islands, secluded coves and incredible marine encounters. Great White Shark The pristine waters are a sanctuary for some of Australia’s most unique and curious marine creatures including dolphins, Giant Cuttleﬁsh, Leafy Sea Dragons, and Southern Right Whales. The region has become renowned for offering opportunities to interact with these wild marine creatures, such as swimming with Australian Sea-lions; or cage-diving with Great White Sharks. Within the region are several national parks protecting native fauna and ﬂora. The rugged limestone cliffs of the Eyre Peninsula are a sanctuary for Osprey and White-bellied Sea Eagles and numerous other seabirds. Venturing further inland, the region is home to distinctive rock formations, and a variety of plants and animals, including Western Grey Kangaroos, Emus, Koalas, and Southern Hairy-nosed Wombats. The Southern Eyre Peninsula alone is home to 270 species of birds and around 1,900 native plant species within a variety of habitats. Owner, David Doudle, is a fourth-generation farmer, and has spent 30 years exploring the local area. He and his team’s knowledge of the area and the longstanding relationships they have with the local communities, make touring across the region with Australian Coastal Safaris an unforgettable experience. A central focus for the company is designing custom itineraries based on what guests are especially looking for, and delivering a personal service which provides great memories. The team is passionate about preserving the region and are ambassadors in keeping the environments pure, pristine and sparsely populated, to ensure that guests can enjoy these experiences and exceptional habitats well into the future.

Featured Experience Days Departing Season Duration Max Number

Australian Sea-lion Port Lincoln Wildlife Encounters (S,P) On Request Year round 2 days 6

Eyre Peninsula Wildlife & Ocean Encounters (S,P) On Request Oct - late May 3 days 6

Winter Whale Watching & Wildlife Encounters (S,P) On Request July - late Sep 5 days 6

Three Day Southern Eyre Peninsula Birding (S,P) Wednesdays Sep - late May 3 days 6

Port Lincoln & Cofﬁn Bay Photography Workshop (S,P) On Request Year round 3 days 4

S Shared Group P Private Group Available

REGION: ACCESS: CONTACT: Port Lincoln Parrot Osprey Koala Cummings Monument Eyre Peninsula, South Australia Port Lincoln (PLO), 40 min ﬂight from +61 472 682 490 Adelaide Airport (ADL) [email protected] 8 9 Boutique Wildlife Tours

The Southern Highlands, is located around 110 kilometres (70 miles) southwest of Sydney, in New South Wales. The region sits between 500m and 900m above sea level as part of the Great Dividing Range; Australia’s most substantial mountain range and the third longest land-based range in the world. Tawny Frogmouth Common Wombat The Great Western Wildlife Corridor is a key link through the Southern Highlands for wildlife migration between the southern Blue Mountains World Heritage area and Morton National Park further south. The area was historically cleared for farming, but contains a series of signiﬁcant fragments of remnant woodland vegetation on private and public land, that act as stepping stones for fauna to move through various habitats. Several rivers ﬂow through the region, including the Wingecarribee, Wollondilly, and Paddy’s river, providing the opportunity to see one of Australia’s most curious creatures, the Platypus. In recent years, several properties have been established as Koala sanctuaries in the area and it has been estimated that over 3,000 Koalas reside in the Southern Highlands, making it the largest Koala population in southern New South Wales. The region is also a key habitat Eastern Grey Kangaroos, Red-necked Wallabies, Short-beaked Echidnas and numerous bird species, with 260 species recorded. Nocturnal species are a highlight for visitors including Brush-tailed Possums, Greater Gliders, Sugar Gliders and Common Wombats. Boutique Wildlife Tours has been offering unique small-group wildlife viewing experiences out of Sydney since 2010 and is part of the family-owned Activity Tours Australia group. The company has a strong focus on quality interpretation from guides, allowing for a high degree of customisation depending on guest interests and seasonal conditions.

Featured Experience Days Departing Season Duration Max Number Rainbow Lorikeet Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat & Southern Highlands Wildlife Day Tour (S, P) Year round 10 hours 11 Fri from Apr 2019

S Shared Group P Private Group Available

REGION: ACCESS: CONTACT: Red-necked Wallaby Brush-tailed Possum Koala Berrima The Southern Highlands, Sydney (SYD) +61 2 9436 1333 New South Wales [email protected] 10 11 Echidna Walkabout Nature Tours

The state of Victoria is blessed with an abundance of wildlife in its diverse habitats. East Gippsland is one of the few regions in the world that has a large unbroken chain of forest stretching from the alps to the sea. The diversity of ecosystems ranges from magnificent lush rainforests, coastal heathlands, giant eucalypt groves, pristine rivers and estuaries, through to white sandy beaches. Flame Robin East Gippsland This region is amazingly rich in fauna with 50 native mammal species; including two monotreme species, the Platypus and Echidna; 17 species of kangaroos, possums, gliders, Koalas, and wombats; 19 amphibians and 36 reptile species, including the Lace Monitor and Diamond Python. The grasslands and low woodlands around the You Yangs are home to more than 200 bird species, as well as being a key habitat for Eastern Grey Kangaroos, possums and Koalas. Inland from the coastal landscape of the Great Ocean Road, the cool, wet hinterland rainforests are home to kangaroos and wallabies, possums, Short-beaked Echidnas, and a myriad of birdlife; while the tall eucalypts forests of the Great Otway National Park are alive with vividly coloured parrots and cockatoos, as well as 38 species of butterfly. Echidna Walkabout Nature Tours has been providing high quality nature and wildlife experiences in these regions for small groups of travellers for almost 25 years. With an enduring passion for wildlife and dedication to protecting nature, their vision is to bring people and wildlife together for mutual benefit and ensure the free-living future of Australian wildlife. Guests contribute to projects that actively helps wildlife; for example, weeding to save the local Koala population; collecting a discarded fishing net; or helping guides record birds for atlas submission.

Featured Experience Days Departing Season Duration Max Number

East Gippsland Wildlife Journey (S,P) Mon Sep - late May 4 days 8 Koala Short-beaked Echidna Great Ocean Road (S,P) Tue, Fri Year round 3 days 8

Kangaroo & Koalas In the Wild (S,P,L) Daily Year round Full day 10

Tawny Frogmouths & Sandpipers 2 day Birding (P) On Request Year round 2 days 25

Mungo Outback Journey (P) On Request Mar - late Oct 4 days 8

Behind the Scenes with Researchers: Koalas (P,L) On Request Year round Full day 10

S Shared Group P Private Group Available L Larger Groups Available

REGION: ACCESS: CONTACT: Melbourne (MEL) +61 3 9646 8249 Lace Monitor King Parrot Superb Lyrebird Great Ocean Road – The Twelve Apostles East Gippsland, Great Ocean Road, and Melbourne, Victoria [email protected] 12 13 Exceptional Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island is Australia’s third-largest island, and more than one third of it is protected as National and Conservation parks. Half the native bushland remains just as it was when British explorer Matthew Flinders named it in 1802, providing a natural habitat for a rich variety of animals: Kangaroo Island Kangaroos; Tammar Wallabies; Short-beaked Echidnas; Southern Brown Bandicoots; possums; Glossy Black Cockatoo Rosenberg’s Goanna and bats, which can be seen all year round. Many of the island’s plant and animal species are either threatened or exist nowhere else in Australia, such as the Sooty Dunnart, which is unique to Kangaroo Island. Hundreds of rare Australian Sea-lions gather on the long sandy beachfront at the Seal Park Conservation Park, one of the only places in the world where you can wander within metres of the animals as they laze on the beach. The island is home to more than 260 bird species, including the rare Glossy Black Cockatoo, which is one of 14 birds with a Kangaroo Island sub-species. The region is also famous for its honey which comes from the only remaining strain of pure Ligurian Bees in the world. Multi award-winning tour operator Exceptional Kangaroo Island has been introducing guests to Kangaroo Island’s unique wildlife since 1990, offering small group and luxury private four-wheel drive touring, as well as special interest programs, which promise good food, good wine and wildlife in the wild. Exceptional Kangaroo Island takes its responsibility to the environment, its guests and its community seriously, which is reﬂected in the company achieving advanced eco tourism accreditation and developing an operational code of ethics. They will create an itinerary for you celebrating the best that Kangaroo Island has to offer.

Featured Experience Days Departing Season Duration Max Number

Kangaroo Island in Style (S,P,L) Daily Year round 2 days 12

Australian Sea-lions Flinders Chase Focus (S,P,L) Daily Year round Full day 12

Island Life (S,P,L) Daily Year round Full day 12

Kangaroo Island Birding (P) On Request Year round 3 days 12

Kangaroo Island Photography (P) On Request Year round 3 days 12

Behind the Scenes with Researchers: On Request Year round Full day 12 Echidnas or Glossy Black Cockatoos (P,L)

S Shared Group P Private Group Available L Larger Groups Available

REGION: ACCESS: CONTACT: Kangaroo Island, South Australia Kingscote (KGC) - 20 minute ﬂight from +61 8 8553 9119 Adelaide Airport (ADL) or 90 minute [email protected] Short-beaked Echidna Kangaroo Island Kangaroos Tammar Wallaby Remarkable Rocks drive & 50 minute ferry from Adelaide to Penneshaw 14 15 Exmouth Dive & Whalesharks Ningaloo

Fringing Western Australia’s north-west coastline, World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef Marine Park is one of the world’s largest and most magnificent fringing coral reefs. This intricate reef system stretches for more than 260 kilometres, and at some points, is only metres from beautiful secluded sandy beaches. The reef is home to a myriad of marine life, including the largest fish ever found, the Whale Shark. Ningaloo is the only place in the world where visitors can swim with Whale Sharks every day from March to August, when the plankton rich waters draw them close to the reef in search of food. Humpback Whales are also in abundance, with more than 30,000 whales migrating to the area from June to November. Manta Rays cruise along the reef between April and November; while in October and November, Green, Loggerhead and Hawksbill Turtles begin their mating season and nesting on the beaches along the coastline. With a bio-diversity of around 300 species of coral, an assortment of uniquely coloured nudibranchs, and more than 500 different species of fish, the warm pristine waters of Ningaloo Reef are an impressive destination all year round. As the region’s original eco-tourism operation, Exmouth Dive & Whalesharks Ningaloo has been taking guests to experience the aquatic treasures of Ningaloo Reef for more than 20 years. The company specialises in small group tours for Whale Shark swims, Humpback Whale swims and whale watching, and scuba diving and snorkelling. Their long-term commitment to preserving the area has contributed to the team of guides providing guests with the region’s best places for diving and snorkelling, along with reliable and exciting interactions with the local wildlife.

Featured Experience Days Departing Season Duration Max Number

Whale Shark Cape Range National Park Deluxe Whaleshark Swim (S,P) Daily Mar - late Aug Full day 20

Deluxe Humpback Whale Swim (S,P) Daily Aug - late Oct Full day 14

Outer Reef or Island Dive & Snorkel (S,P) Daily Mar - late Oct Full day 20

Ningaloo Open Water Dive Course (S,P) Daily Mar - late Oct 3 days 6

Ningaloo Underwater Island Photography Course (S,P) On Request Mar - late Oct Full day 4

Behind the Scenes with Researchers: Manta Rays (P) On Request Mar - late Oct Full day 20

S Shared Group P Private Group Available

REGION: ACCESS: CONTACT: Learmonth Airport (LEA) – 2 hour ﬂight +61 8 9949 1201 Baby Turtle Humpback Whale Manta Ray Ningaloo Reef Exmouth, Western Australia from Perth Airport (PER) [email protected] 16 17 FNQ Nature Tours

Tropical North Queensland is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise, being the only place in the world where two World Heritage Listed areas exist side by side (Wet Tropics and Great Barrier Reef); an exceptionally rare combination of ecology. Buff-breasted Paradise-Kingfisher The Wet Tropics World Heritage Area is extremely rich in biodiversity, with 2800 plant species and 663 vertebrate animal species, including 65 percent of Australia’s fern species, 30 percent of Australia’s orchid species and 35 per cent of Australia’s mammals. Being the oldest tropical rainforest in the world, the landscapes provide living examples of some of the earliest flowering plants and a fascinating insight into the diversity, evolution and survival of many rainforest species. This is the area where the world’s songbirds emerged, currently home to forty percent of Australia’s bird species including bowerbirds, kingfishers, riflebirds, fruit doves and the endangered Southern Cassowary. Boasting the highest diversity of rainforest mammals in Australia, the Bennett’s and Lumholtz Tree Kangaroo, Spectacled Flying-fox, Daintree River Ringtail Possum and Northern Long-nosed Bandicoot are popular sightings. These spectacular landscapes are also prime spots to observe reptiles, amphibians, monotremes and butterflies, including the Platypus, Saltwater Crocodile, Boyd’s Forest Dragon, White-lipped Tree Frog, Green-eyed Tree Frog, Snapping Turtle, Leaf-tailed Gecko and the electric blue coloured Ulysses butterfly. After 10 years of guiding nature and wildlife safaris in Northern Australia, James Boettcher established FNQ Nature Tours in 2015, with a firm belief that tourism is the key to the protection and conservation of the region. Expertly led small group tours are available across the Daintree Rainforest National Park, Atherton Tablelands, Crater Lakes and Cape Tribulation regions, designed for nature minded travellers desiring a personal, educational and interactive experience.

White-lipped Green Tree Frog Southern Cassowary Lumholtz Tree Kangaroo Featured Experience Days Departing Season Duration Max Number

Cape Tribulation & Daintree Ultimate Nature (P) On Request Mar - late Jan 2 days 7

Daintree Exclusive (P) On Request Year round Full day 7

Tablelands & Crater Lakes (P) On Request Year round Full day 7

Far North Queensland: 3 day Birding (P) On Request Year round 3 days 7

Wet Tropics Photography Workshop (P) On Request Year round 2 days 7

Behind the Scenes with Researchers: Tree Kangaroos (P) On Request Year round Full day 4

P Private Group

REGION: ACCESS: CONTACT: Cairns (CNS) +61 400 732 883 Saltwater Crocodile Ulysses Butterﬂy Mossman Gorge Far North Queensland [email protected] 18 19 Lords Kakadu & Arnhemland Safaris

Kakadu National Park, in Australia’s Northern Territory, is one of the world’s most magnificent natural reserves. With 280 bird species, 77 mammals, more than 10,000 insect species, 1600 species of flora, 132 reptiles and more than 50,000 years of Indigenous history and culture, the area is a World Heritage-listed for both its natural and cultural significance. Magpie Geese Black-necked Stork The wetlands of Kakadu are a bird-watcher’s paradise, with areas such as Yellow Water Billabong attracting many enthusiasts due to the immense concentration of birds, especially in the dry season, including Magpie Geese, Whistling Ducks, Great Egrets, Royal Spoonbills and Black-winged Stilts. One-tenth of all Saltwater Crocodiles in the Northern Territory are found at Kakadu. Along these vast floodplains, it is common to see Melaleuca forests that provide habitat for Agile Wallabies and nesting sites for birds such as the Black-necked Stork (Jabiru). Lords Kakadu and Arnhemland Safaris is a family-owned, award-winning company that has been connecting guests to the Top End’s remarkable natural beauty and indigenous culture for more than 27 years. Historically, the Lord family were pioneers of the Kakadu region. Owner, Sab Lord, was raised on a buffalo and crocodile hunting station, and his appreciation of the wilderness is linked back to his earliest childhood memories. Since then, his team have become key advocates in protecting and preserving Kakadu and Arnhem Land. The company only offers private luxury four-wheel drive touring and has special access to award-winning properties such as Bamurru Plains Safaris Lodge & Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris Lodge; the only external tour operation to have this arrangement. The company also has special permission granted by traditional owners to visit areas of the Northern Territory inaccessible to other tour companies, ensuring guests have the same guide for their entire Top End Experience.

Featured Experience Days Departing Season Duration Max Number

Azure Kingﬁsher Three Day Peek Kakadu & Arnhemland (P) On Request May - late Oct 3 days 6

Top End Luxury Lodges (P) On Request Apr - late Oct 5 days 6

Lords Safaris, Davidson’s & Bamurru Plains (P) On Request Apr - late Oct 6 days 6

Kakadu Birding Tour (P) On Request May - late Oct 3 days 6

Kakadu & Arnhem Land Photography Tour (P) On Request Apr - late Oct 5 days 6

Private Charter (Kakadu, Arnhemland or Kimberleys) On Request May - late Oct 3-14 days 6

P Private Group

REGION: ACCESS: CONTACT: Darwin (DRW) +61 438 808 548 Saltwater Crocodile Agile Wallaby Airboat Arnhem Land Kakadu and Arnhemland, Northern Territory [email protected] 20 21 Naturaliste Charters

The Bremer Canyon off Western Australia’s southwest region, has become one of the most sought after whale watching expeditions across the globe, with over 100 Killer Whales (Orcas) returning to the submarine canyon each year from January to April; the only place in Australia where you can reliably encounter Killer Whales in the wild. Blue Whale Southern Right Whale The offshore marine environment of the Bremer Canyon supports an incredible diversity of wildlife. As well as encountering Killer Whales over 95% of the time, other species seen include Bottlenose, Striped and Common Dolphins, Long-finned Pilot Whales, Sperm Whales, Australian Sea-lions, Giant Squid, Oceanic Sunfish and even rare beaked whale species. It’s also a pelagic birdwatchers dream, with an astonishing array of seabirds including albatross, shearwater and petrel species. Located at the edge of the Margaret River region, the picturesque seaside town of Augusta is one of the best locations in Australia to view Humpback Whales and Southern Right Whales as they make their migration north through the Ngari Capes Marine Park. Further north, Dunsborough is known for its tranquil waters and white sands, being the perfect backdrop to observe Humpback Whales and Blue Whales, as they escort calves back to Antarctica. Naturaliste Charters has been offering spectacular eco-adventures within the region for over 20 years. Paul and Alison Cross purchased the business in 2009, with the organisation recognised as a leader in the responsible travel sector. The team is actively engaged with scientific projects with on-board research personnel, continuous improvement of environmental programs, water quality surveys, acoustic monitoring of whales, support of community groups and innovative educational programs for guests venturing out to see some of the ocean’s rarest and spectacular creatures.

Featured Experience Days Departing Season Duration Max Number Killer Whale Wandering Albatross Bremer Canyon Killer Whale Expedition (S) Daily Jan - late Apr 8 hours 50

Dunsborough Whale Watching (S) Daily Sep - early Dec 2.5 hours 90

Augusta Whale Watching (S) Daily Mid May - late Aug 2.5 hours 90

S Shared Group

REGION: ACCESS: CONTACT: Bremer Bay and Margaret River region, Bremer Bay is accessible from Albany +61 8 9750 5500 (ALH), Margaret River is a three-hour drive [email protected] Humpback Whale Killer Whale Alison Maree Vessel Western Australia south of Perth (PER). 22 23 Premier Travel Tasmania

One third of Tasmania’s land mass is national park and UNESCO World Heritage wilderness, providing an extraordinary diverse habitat for an abundance of native Australian wildlife. Green Rosella Forester Kangaroos The isle state boasts a mix of expansive ancient temperate rainforests, spectacular coastlines, rugged mountains and sparkling highland lakes, providing refuge and habitat for a rich array of rare and endemic plants and animals. In fact, more than 60% of all species found across Tasmania’s alpine region are found nowhere else on earth. Australia’s largest expanses of cool temperate rainforest are found in Tasmania. These forests date back over 60 million years, when Australia was attached to Antarctica, Africa, South America and New Zealand as part of the Gondwana supercontinent. This contributes to the region being renowned as a prime spot for marsupials including quolls, bandicoots, bettongs, potoroos, kangaroos, wallabies, pademelons and wombats, with 33 native terrestrial species recorded. Premier Travel Tasmania is a leading provider of premium small group tours, tailor-made private tours and self-drive adventures, and has been offering specialised encounters with nature across Tasmania since 1996. The company’s aim is to share Tasmania’s diverse ﬂora and fauna, pristine wilderness, rich heritage, gourmet food and wine, and local characters with you. The team consists of local guides who know Tasmania intimately and share their stories in a meaningful way. At the core of the company’s ethos is to preserve Tasmania’s endemic wildlife and their natural habitats, and it makes major contributions towards research to save the world’s largest carnivorous marsupial, the Tasmanian Devil, from habitat loss and disease.

Featured Experience Days Departing Season Duration Max Number

Late Sep - late May (S) Eastern Quoll Short-beaked Echidna 6 - 8 day Tasmania’s Wildlife & Wilderness (S,P) Wed (S) 6, 7 or 8 days 12 Year round (P)

6 day Private Tasmania’s Wildlife & Wilderness (P) On Request Year round 6 days 12

4 day Private Tasmania Wildlife Encounter (P) On Request Year round 4 days 12

1 day Birdwatching Mt Field National Park (P) On Request Year round Full day 12

Behind the Scenes with Researchers: Wombats (P) On Request Year round Full day 12

S Shared Group P Private Group Available

REGION: ACCESS: CONTACT: Hobart (HBA) or Launceston (LST) +61 3 6231 4214 Tasmanian Devil Platypus Common Wombat Cradle Mountain Tasmania [email protected] 24 25 SEIT Outback Australia

The Red Centre is considered the spiritual heart of Australia, with incredible desert landscapes and iconic landmarks such as Uluru, Kata Tjuta, and Kings Canyon captivating countless visitors. The Anangu people of Uluru have been the traditional custodians of this ancient land for many generations, balancing the intricate relationship between people, plants, animals and the landscape. Black-breasted Buzzard Black Kite Uluru The area is an important habitat for Red Kangaroos, Common Wallaroos and numerous raptors and bush birds including Black Kites, Black Breasted Buzzards, Brown Falcons, Nankeen Kestrels, Wedge-tailed Eagles and Pied Butcherbirds. Reptiles are also abundant with Thorny Devils, Sand Goannas, Central Netted Dragons and Blue-tongued Lizards commonly seen. The Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is a sanctuary for 21 mammals, 73 reptiles and 178 birds with many of these animals being culturally signiﬁcant, often referred to as ancestral creatures in Aboriginal legends. SEIT Outback Australia is a small group tour company that offers visitors educational and immersive experiences in and around Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. The acronym SEIT stands for Spirit, Emotion, Intellect and Task, which perfectly describes the company’s philosophy to touring. This is derived from a promise that visitors will leave with a better appreciation of life in the outback and a new found understanding of the inextricable connection between the wildlife, the land and the culture in Central Australia. SEIT Outback Australia’s guides hail from all parts of the globe, but have one thing in common - they speak from experience and from the heart. Touring in small groups with a maximum of eleven people is key to SEIT Outback Australia’s operation, allowing for a more personalized and interactive experience.

Featured Experience Days Departing Season Duration Max Number

SEIT Mt Conner 4WD Adventure: Daily Year round Full day 11 Major Mitchell Cockatoo Sand Goanna Wildlife & Cattle Station (S,P,L)

SEIT All - Uluru & Kata Tjuta (S,P,L) Daily Year round Two 5-hour tours 11

SEIT Patji: A True Aboriginal Experience (S,P,L) Tue, Thu, Sat Year round Full day 9

Tue & Fri (Uluru to Alice SEIT Red Centre Iconics Tour: Springs), Sat & Mon (Alice Year round 3 days 8 Uluru, Kata Tjuta & Kings Canyon (S,P) Springs to Uluru)

S Shared Group P Private Group Available L Larger Groups Available

REGION: ACCESS: CONTACT: Ayers Rock (AYQ) or Alice Springs (ASP) +61 8 8956 3156 Thorny Devil Kata Tjuta Zebra Finch Uluru and Red Centre [email protected] 26 27 The Maria Island Walk

World Heritage-listed Maria Island is located just off Tasmania’s east coast and is known for its historic ruins, picturesque bays, rugged cliffs and mountains and amazing fossils. But for many visitors, it’s the island’s remarkable collection of rare birds and animals, largely unaffected by human presence, that is the highlight. Spotted Pardalote When the island became a national park in the 1970s, a variety of threatened and endangered species were introduced, and it became an island sanctuary, leading to its nickname as ’Tasmania’s Noah’s Ark’. The island is home to all of Tasmania’s endemic birds, including the Yellow Wattlebird, Green Rosella and one of Australia’s rarest and smallest birds, the endangered Forty-spotted Pardalote, which has only ﬁve remaining population groups, of which Maria island is the largest remaining stronghold. The Maria Island Walk was introduced to showcase the island’s many charms to a new band of travellers that valued authentic wildlife encounters in remote and tranquil settings, combined with world-class hospitality. The walk is a ‘soft adventure’ experience, where backpacks are light, the food is gourmet, the wine is Tasmania’s best, and each night there is a comfortable bed. Central to the company’s philosophy is the importance of creating a connection between walkers and guides, and a personalised, intimate experience, with a maximum of ten guests led by two professional guides. The walk has received widespread acclaim for its environmentally friendly practices, contribution to conservation projects, and leadership in the eco tourism and walking sectors. The team takes great pleasure in offering an authentic Tasmanian experience, bringing to life local history and culture, rare Tasmanian wildlife, and spectacular scenery. Testimony to the success of this unbeatable formula is the string of national and state awards that has made The Maria Island Walk one of the most desired guided walking experiences in Australia.

Common Wombat Cape Barren Goose Featured Experience Days Departing Season Duration Max Number

The Maria Island Walk (S,P) Daily Oct - late Apr 4 days 10

Maria Island Winter Escape (S,P) Fri, Sat, Mon Jun - late Aug 3 days 8

S Shared Group P Private Group Available

REGION: ACCESS: CONTACT: Hobart (HBA) +61 3 6234 2999 Fossil Cliffs Tasmanian Native Hen Bennett’s Wallaby McRaes Isthmus Maria Island, Tasmania [email protected] 28 29 Wildlife Coast Cruises

Located southeast of Melbourne, Phillip Island is renowned for spectacular coastal scenery, abundant marine wildlife and important seabird colonies. The island is surrounded by contrasting coastal and marine ecosystems - from tranquil mangrove-lined inlets to the wild surf of the Bass Strait, it boasts long stretches of sandy beaches, fascinating basalt and granite cliffs and caves, remote crystal Southern Right Whale blue bays and rugged rocky outcrops. Abundant marine wildlife can be seen around Phillip Island including Common and Bottlenose Dolphins, the largest colony of Australian Fur Seals on the continent at Seal Rocks, Little Penguins, and three species of whales in winter: Humpback, Southern Right and Orcas. Birdwatchers will be delighted to see the wide diversity of birds, including raptors, wader birds, and seabirds, with highlights including White-bellied Sea Eagles, Wedge-tailed Eagles, Australasian Gannets and the Shy Albatross. This area is thought to support 26,000 Little Penguins, 45,000 pairs of Short-tailed Shearwaters and one of the largest breeding colonies of Crested Terns in Victoria. Wildlife Coast Cruises has been showing locals and visitors the spectacular wildlife and coastal scenery around Victoria’s Phillip Island, Seal Rocks, Westernport Bay and Wilsons Promontory for more than 20 years. A long-term ambassador in the ﬁeld of eco-tourism, Wildlife Coast Cruises boasts many environmental and tourism accreditations, and offers a range of up close and personal wildlife experiences aboard their comfortable vessels, enabling you to experience everything that Victoria’s magniﬁcent waterways offer. The team believes strongly in conservation through appreciation, and are passionate about engaging guests in the experience. The captain and crew have a thorough knowledge of local wildlife, habitat and history, which is shared with guests through engaging commentary and warm hospitality.

Featured Experience Days Departing Season Duration Max Number

Australian Fur Seals Australasian Gannet Seal Watching Cruise (S) Daily Year round 2 hours 120

Winter Whale Cruise (S) Daily Jun - early Aug 4 hours 80

Dolphin & Whale Cruise (S) Daily Jun - early Aug 3.25 hours 80

Wilsons Promontory Full Day Cruise (S) Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun Late Nov - mid Apr Full day 65

Wilsons Promontory Whale Cruise (S) Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun Sep - mid Nov 6 hours 65

Behind the Scenes with Researchers: On Request Year round Custom 20 Whales & Dolphins (P)

S Shared Group P Private Group Available

REGION: ACCESS: CONTACT: Melbourne (MEL), 90 minutes by car +61 3 5952 3501 Humpback Whale Shy Albatross Humpback Whale Cowes - Phillip Island, Victoria to Cowes from Melbourne [email protected] 30 31 Arkaba Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Australian Coastal Safaris Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Red Kangaroo Australian Sea-lions BV BV BV BV X X X BV BV BV Marine Mammals

Common Wallaroo B Koala B B BV BV BV B Land Mammals BV Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby

Western Grey Kangaroo BV BV BV BV BV BV BV BV Mammals

Emu BV BV N N N N BV Land Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat

Australian Ring-neck Parrot N N N N N

Osprey N N N

Wedge-tailed Eagle N N N N N Birds N Emu N N N BV BV

Rainbow Bee-eater X X X X X X X Port Lincoln Parrot N N N N N Birds Red-capped Robin N N N N N N N Rock Parrot N N N N N

Western Yellow Robin N N N N N N N

Shingleback Lizard X X X B B B Blue-breasted Wren N N

Barking Gecko X X X B Reptiles Great White Shark Fish Painted Dragons X X X X

Rosenberg’s Goanna B B B B Reptiles

*For a more comprehensive list of sighting opportunities in this region, please visit the Australian Wildlife Journeys website. *For a more comprehensive list of sighting opportunities in this region, please visit the Australian Wildlife Journeys website.

KEY Peak viewing/ best time to visit for species Likely sighting chance Moderate sighting chance X No viewing/tour not available N Nesting B Breeding BV Baby viewing KEY Peak viewing/ best time to visit for species Likely sighting chance Moderate sighting chance X No viewing/tour not available N Nesting B Breeding BV Baby viewing

32 33 Boutique Wildlife Tours Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Echidna Walkabout Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Nature Tours

Eastern Grey Kangaroo B B B B B BV BV Koala B B BV BV BV B B

Red-necked Wallaby B B B B B Eastern Grey Kangaroos BV BV BV BV B B B

Common Wombat B B B B B Swamp Wallabies

Short-beaked Echidna B B B B Short-beaked Echidnas

Platypus B B B

Land Mammals & Monotremes Yellow-bellied & Greater X X X X X X X X X Gliders

Land Mammals & Monotremes Brush-tailed Possum B B Grey-headed Flying Fox B B X X X BV BV BV

Sugar Glider B B B B B

King Parrot X X X Koala B B B B B B B B

Superb Lyrebird N X X X N

Laughing Kookaburra N N Satin Bowerbirds X X X Birds Tawny Frogmouth N N N N

Cuckoos X X X N N N Birds Superb Lyrebird N N N

Scarlet Honeyeater X X X Eastern Rosella N N N

Lace Monitor X X X X

Eastern Water Dragon B B Reptiles Reptiles

34 35 Exceptional Kangaroo Island Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Exmouth Dive & Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Whalesharks Ningaloo

Kangaroo Island Kangaroo B B B BV BV BV BV B Whale Shark X X X X X X

Build up of Mass Fish, Tammar Wallaby B B BV BV BV BV

Monotremes Congregation Cods, Mobular X X X X

Rays, Pelagic Fish

Short-beaked Echidna B B B Manta Ray X X X X X Mammals

Fish Land Koala B B BV BV BV BV BV B B Coral Spawning X X X X X X X X X X

Grey Nurse Sharks X X X X X X X Glossy Black Cockatoo N N N N N N BV BV BV

Sharks: Grey Reef, Black Tip, Tiger, Tawny, Lemon, X X X X Hooded Dotterel N N N N N N N Hammerhead

N N N Cape Barren Goose N N BV Humpback Whale X X X X X BV BV BV X X

Birds BV BV BV

Scarlet Robin Dugong X X BV BV X X X X

Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo N N N N Spinner Dolphin X X X X Marine Mammals Bottlenose Dolphin X X X X Australian Sea-lion BV BV BV BV BV BV BV BV BV BV BV BV Mammals Orca X X X X X X Long-nosed Fur Seal B BV BV BV BV BV BV BV B B Marine

Green, Loggerhead and X X N X X Rosenberg’s Goanna B B B X X X X B Hawksbill Turtles Reptiles Marine Reptiles

36 37 FNQ Nature Tours Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Lords Kakadu & Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Arnhemland Safaris

Platypus B B B Saltwater Crocodile X X X X X

Green Ringtail Possum Freshwater Crocodile X X X X X Reptiles

Musky Rat Kangaroo Mertens’ Water Monitor X X X X X Land Mammals & Monotremes Tree Kangaroo Agile Wallaby & Wilkins Rock X X X X X Wallaby

N Southern Cassowary B B B N BV BV Dingo X X X X X BV Land Mammals

Buff-breasted Paradise N BV BV X X X X B B B Kingﬁsher Blue-winged Kookaburra X X X X X Birds Tooth-billed Bowerbird B B Magpie Geese X X X BV BV BV X X

*courtship Victoria’s Riﬂebird display Brolga X X X X X s Boyd’s Forest Dragon B B B B B Comb-crested Jacana X X X BV BV BV X X Bird

Saltwater Crocodile N N BV BV B B N Black-necked Stork X X X BV BV X X

Green-eyed Tree Frog Azure Kingﬁsher X X X BV BV BV BV X X Reptiles & Amphibians Reptiles

Leaf-tailed Gecko Great Billed Heron X X X X X

38 39 Naturaliste Charters Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Premier Travel Tasmania Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

B B B B Killer Whale X X X X X X X X BV BV BV BV Tasmanian Devil BV B B B BV BV

B B B Sperm Whale X X X X X X X X BV BV BV Platypus BV B B B BV

B B Long-ﬁnned Pilot Whale X X X X X X X X BV BV Tasmanian Pademelon B B B BV BV BV

Humpback Whale X X X X B B B B B BV BV X Forester Kangaroo B B BV BV B B

B B B B B Southern-right Whale X X X X X B X Land Mammals & Monotremes BV BV BV BV BV Common Wombat BV BV B B B Marine Mammals

B B Blue Whale X X X X B B X X B X Eastern Quoll B B BV BV BV BV

BV Long-nosed Fur Seal X X X X X X X Short-tailed Shearwater BV *migrate to X X X B Northern Hemisphere

Tasmanian Wedge-tailed B N N N N N Australian Sea Lion BV BV BV BV BV X X X X X X X Eagle

Green Rosella B B N N N N Birds Flesh-footed Shearwater X X X X X X X X

Orange-bellied Parrot X X X X X X N N N

Wandering Albatross X X X X X X X X Little Penguin BV N N N BV BV BV Birds Indian Yellow-nosed X Albatross

Australian Fur Seals B BV BV Brown Skua X Marine Mammals

40 41 SEIT Outback Australia Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec The Maria Island Walk Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Thorny Devil X X X X B B B Common Wombat BV BV B B B

Central Netted Dragon & B Forester Kangaroo B B BV BV B B B Long Nosed Dragon

B B Blue-tongue Lizard X X X X B B B Bennett’s Wallaby B BV BV BV BV BV Reptiles* Land Mammals Sand Goanna X X X X B B Pademelon BV B B BV BV BV

Perentie X X X X Tasmanian Devil BV BV B B

Black-breasted Buzzard N N N N N N N N Forty-spotted Pardalote N N N N

Wedge-tailed Eagle N N N N N N N N Cape Barren Goose N N N N

N N N N Whistling and Black Kites N N N N N N N N Tasmanian Native Hen N N BV BV BV BV Birds* Zebra & Painted Finch Yellow Wattlebird N N N N Birds Budgerigar X X X X X X X X Hooded Plover N N N N N N

Major Mitchell Cockatoo X X X Swift Parrot X X X X X X X N N N N

Scarlet & Flame Robins N N N N N

Red Kangaroo Land

Mammals* White-bellied Sea Eagle N N N

*Wildlife sightings and breeding cycles dependent on rainfail *For a more comprehensive list of sighting opportunities in this region, please visit the Australian Wildlife Journeys website. *For a more comprehensive list of sighting opportunities in this region, please visit the Australian Wildlife Journeys website.

42 43 Wildlife Coast Cruises Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

B B Australian Fur Seal BV B BV BV

Common Dolphin

Bottlenose Dolphin Plan your trip

Australia is a vast land with enormous diversity, so knowing Humpback Whale X X X X

Marine Mammals where to start planning your journey can sometimes be overwhelming. With so much to discover, the Australian

Southern Right Whale X X X X X X X Wildlife Journeys website is the perfect resource to get started on planning your Australian adventure. You’ll ﬁnd more details about each of the operators; suggested Orca X X X X X X X itineraries; wildlife experiences by destination or special wildlife interest; and information to help you plan your trip. You can contact each operator directly for more information, Cormorants: Pied and immerse yourself in our picture and video galleries, and sign up Black-faced for special offers. Whether you book directly with your chosen operator, or via your preferred travel specialist, our website is a Shy Albatross X X great place to start. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and share your Australasian Gannet experiences, stories and photos; or ﬁnd inspiration for your next Australian wildlife journey. Birds Crested Tern N N N

Short-tailed Shearwater X X X X N N www.australianwildlifejourneys.com www.facebook.com/australianwildlifejourneys Little Penguin N N N N N N @AustralianWildlifeJourneys

*For a more comprehensive list of sighting opportunities in this region, please visit the Australian Wildlife Journeys website.

KEY Peak viewing/ best time to visit for species Likely sighting chance Moderate sighting chance X No viewing/tour not available N Nesting B Breeding BV Baby viewing

44 45 Our Signature Experiences showcase the best quality experiences on offer across Australia. From winery experiences, ﬁshing adventures and Aboriginal guided tours to luxury lodges, wildlife encounters, guided walking tours and a round or two of golf.

Luxury Lodges of Australia is an extensive collection of Discover Aboriginal Experiences is a collective of inspiring Great Walks of Australia offers superb and Great Fishing Adventures of Australia provides Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia is a Great Golf Courses of Australia provides access independent lodges and camps offering unforgettable and transformational experiences guided by Aboriginal quintessentially Australian walking experiences saltwater, freshwater and fly fishing enthusiasts collection of premium award-winning wineries to some of Australia’s leading golf courses, experiences in Australia’s most inspiring and extraordinary people who share their country and bring the landscape that engage walkers in some of the world’s the opportunity to indulge in their passion in in Australia’s most renowned wine regions. including the country’s six World Top 100 course locations. These lodges are exclusive by virtue of their to life through their stories. A diverse range of experiences most spectacular terrain. These walks inspire some of the most diverse environments the These wineries are not just places to sample listings: Barnbougle Dunes and Barnbougle Lost remoteness, their special location and intimate size. on offer include quad biking, kayaking, hiking, fishing, mud travellers to explore Australia’s diverse landscape world has to offer. and purchase wine, but offer a diverse and Farm, Kingston Heath, New South Wales, Royal crabbing, sightseeing, art and food. by foot, where guests reconnect with nature in unique range of cellar door, dining and private Melbourne and Royal Adelaide. small, intimate groups led by expert guides with touring experiences. a deep understanding and appreciation of the environment.

46 47 www.australianwildlifejourneys.com AustralianWildlifeJourneys @australianwildlifejourneys Website Icon: www.australianwildlifejourneys.com Facebook Icon: AustralianWildlifeJourneys Instagram Icon: @australianwildlifejourneys Twitter Icon: @AWJourneys

48 OPERATOR EXPERIENCES